Vintage Suitcase Coffee Table

An old suitcase fashioned into a coffee table not only serves as an element of intrigue but provides storage for books, blankets and other great room accessories. “I think suitcases are so iconic,” says design coordinator Laurie March. “They tell you that you are going somewhere; that you’ve landed.”

Photo by: Eric Perry

Eric Perry

Introduction

Back when air travel was less common, suitcases and trunks were built to last. In the steamer days, it was not on common for them to slosh around the hull in water.

Thankfully because of the pride and quality in construction many of these old suitcases still exist. With minimal work, you can easily turn one of these into a vintage coffee table that will last for years to come.

Step 1

Photo by: DYLAN EASTMAN

DYLAN EASTMAN

Find the Perfect Suitcase

Start by hunting your local antique stores, flea markets, and yard sales for old suitcases and trunks. Make sure it has solid construction and is well built even if the locks or latches don't work.

Step 2

Photo by: DYLAN EASTMAN

DYLAN EASTMAN

Source the Legs

Source legs for your coffee table. Many antique or upcycled items could work but in our case we found these new construction hair pin legs quite charming.

Step 3

Photo by: DYLAN EASTMAN

DYLAN EASTMAN

Measure and Cut

Next, measure the inside dimensions of the bottom half of the suitcase. Using a table saw cut a 3/4” piece of plywood 1/8” undersized.

Step 4

Photo by: DYLAN EASTMAN

DYLAN EASTMAN

Pick the Saw

Depending on the suitcase size, you may need to use a circular saw to make one or both cuts if it won't fit through the table saw.

Step 5

Photo by: DYLAN EASTMAN

DYLAN EASTMAN

Test Fit

Test fit the plywood into the base and make sure it sits flat against the bottom panel.

Step 6

Photo by: DYLAN EASTMAN

DYLAN EASTMAN

Remove Hardware

If necessary, remove any interior hardware that might be in the way. Many old suitcases provisions to hold hangers.

Step 7

Photo by: DYLAN EASTMAN

DYLAN EASTMAN

Attach the Legs

Attach the legs to the bottom corners using 3/4” coarse thread screws. Since hair pin legs angle out, I set these back in from the perimeter slightly.

Not only does this upcycled coffee table have a vintage flair that will stand the test of time but it also provides functional storage inside.